International Packaging Films Limited (IPAK), founded in 2017, has quickly established itself as a leader in Pakistan’s packaging industry. Known for its innovation, superior quality, and commitment to sustainability, IPAK has made a mark in flexible packaging solutions, offering products that cater to a wide range of industries.
Headquartered in Karachi, IPAK operates a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Lahore, allowing the company to serve both local and international markets.
In this article, we explore IPAK’s journey, its product offerings, sustainability initiatives, leadership vision, and the future of this pioneering company in the packaging industry.
Foundation and Growth Trajectory
IPAK was born out of the vision to revolutionise Pakistan’s packaging sector by introducing advanced packaging technologies. It became the first company in the country to introduce five-layer Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) films, which set the standard for quality, R&D and efficiency in packaging solutions. With state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment sourced from renowned international engineering firms, IPAK quickly rose to prominence, establishing itself as a trusted name in both the local and international packaging markets.
Since its inception, IPAK has achieved significant milestones, including becoming the largest manufacturer of packaging films in Pakistan by 2024. The company’s rapid expansion has been supported by its commitment to technological innovation and a relentless focus on meeting customer demands.
IPAK’s manufacturing facility, spanning over 46 acres, enables it to produce a diversified range of products tailored to meet the specific requirements of various industries.
Product Portfolio: Versatility and Innovation
IPAK offers an extensive product portfolio, providing flexible packaging solutions for industries such as food, labels and industrial products.
While the company is particularly recognized for its contributions to the food packaging sector, its films are widely used in multiple applications, offering higher productivity, extended shelf life, aesthetics and durability.
Key Product Lines:
• BOPP Films: IPAK’s BOPP films are highly sought after for their high gloss, transparency, and protective barrier properties, making them ideal for food packaging, such as snacks and bakery items. These films also offer excellent printability, allowing brands to maintain vibrant packaging designs that enhance shelf appeal.
• CPP Films: Cast Polypropylene (CPP) films are widely used in laminations and flexible packaging applications due to their superior seal strength and puncture resistance. They are ideal for packaging that requires high clarity and durability.
• BOPET Films: Biaxially Oriented Polyester (BOPET) films are known for their strength and barrier properties. These films are extensively used in the packaging of electronics, industrial goods, and consumer products, where robust protection is needed.
• Metallized Films: Metallized films provide excellent barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and light, extending the shelf life of perishable goods. These films are commonly used in the packaging of snacks and confectionery items that require enhanced protection.
• Cavitated Films: Known for their lightweight, high yield and aesthetics, cavitated films reduce the overall use of plastic without compromising on performance. They are widely used in food packaging, offering an ecofriendly and cost-effective solution.
IPAK’s commitment to continuous technological innovation has been a driving force behind the success of its diverse product offerings. As the packaging industry evolves, the company remains at the forefront by developing high-performance films that meet both domestic and international standards.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is integral to IPAK’s business philosophy. The company has implemented a comprehensive sustainability strategy aimed at reducing its environmental impact while promoting the principles of the circular economy. IPAK’s sustainability initiatives focus on three primary areas: energy efficiency, waste reduction, and product recyclability.
To reduce its carbon footprint, IPAK has invested heavily in renewable energy. Its Lahore facility, for example, generates over 4.1MW of solar power, with plans for future expansion. This transition to renewable energy not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also supports IPAK’s broader goal of achieving netzero emissions in the future.
IPAK is also committed to reducing plastic consumption through downgauging technology, which allows the company to manufacture thinner films without compromising on quality. This process results in lower material usage, decreased plastic waste, and more environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Additionally, IPAK is exploring the development of bio-based and recycled-content films to further align with global sustainability trends.
Circular Economy Initiatives
In alignment with its sustainability goals, IPAK is a strong proponent of the circular economy. The company actively participates in international sustainability initiatives, including partnerships with platforms like RecyClass and CEFLEX, which focus on enhancing the recyclability of plastic packaging and promoting eco-friendly production processes.
These efforts reflect IPAK’s dedication to minimising its environmental footprint and contributing to a sustainable future. By prioritising recyclable materials and optimising its manufacturing processes to reduce waste, IPAK is helping to set new standards for sustainability in the packaging industry.
Leadership and Strategic Vision
IPAK’s growth and success can be attributed to its strong leadership. CEO Naveed Godil and Chairman Muhammed Amin have played pivotal roles in shaping the company’s direction, ensuring that innovation, quality, and sustainability remain at the forefront of its operations.
Under their guidance, IPAK has expanded its product offerings, strengthened its presence in international markets, and fostered a corporate culture that values innovation and environmental responsibility.
A key milestone in IPAK’s growth trajectory was its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2024. The IPO was highly successful, with an oversubscription rate of 1.73 times, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s future. This marked a turning point for IPAK, enabling it to further accelerate its growth and pursue new opportunities in international markets.
Expanding Global Presence: IPAK Connect
As part of its global expansion strategy, IPAK launched a subsidiary in Dubai, IPAK Connect, in 2023. This subsidiary was established to create stronger connections with international markets and facilitate seamless order execution for IPAK’s global clientele. The strategic location of IPAK Connect in Dubai allows the company to efficiently serve customers in regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, helping to broaden IPAK’s reach and enhance its global presence.
IPAK Connect is a key part of the company’s international growth plan, acting as a bridge between IPAK’s manufacturing operations and its global customers. By leveraging Dubai’s world-class infrastructure and strategic location, IPAK is well-positioned to tap into new markets and build lasting partnerships.
Research and Development (R&D)
At the heart of IPAK’s innovation efforts is its robust Research and Development (R&D) department. The company’s Center of Excellence in Research and Development (CERD) plays a critical role in driving product innovation, process optimization, and sustainability initiatives.
IPAK’s R&D team works closely with its customers to develop tailored packaging solutions that meet their specific needs, focusing on improving recyclability, reducing plastic waste, and enhancing product performance.
The company’s product development process is guided by the 5R strategy—Reduce, Reuse, Redesign, Recycle, and Refuse—demonstrating its commitment to sustainable packaging. One of IPAK’s key future innovations is the development of Biaxially Oriented Polyethylene (BOPE) films, which offer enhanced sustainability credentials.
The company is also exploring the use of bio-based materials and top-coated films to align with global trends toward reducing plastic waste and promoting the use of sustainable materials.
Employee Engagement and Corporate Culture
IPAK’s success is also a result of its strong corporate culture, which values collaboration, professional development, and inclusivity. The company places great emphasis on employee well-being and provides state-of-the-art facilities, such as a fully equipped gym, a guest house, and the Executive Mess, where employees can unwind and network.
The Human Resources (HR) department at IPAK has implemented several initiatives to foster employee engagement and create a positive work environment. One of these initiatives is the Smart Employee Self Service (ESS) portal, which allows employees to manage their tasks efficiently and access important HR-related information. This digital transformation aligns with IPAK’s broader strategy to create a more agile and responsive organisation.
IPAK’s focus on employee satisfaction and development ensures that its workforce remains motivated, productive, and committed to the company’s vision. A strong corporate culture is vital to IPAK’s long-term success, helping the company attract and retain top talent.
The Road Ahead: IPAK’s Vision for the Future As IPAK looks towards the future, it remains firmly focused on innovation, sustainability, and global growth. The company has laid out ambitious plans to expand its product offerings, invest further in renewable energy, and continue developing eco-friendly packaging solutions.
With a strong foundation built on technological innovation and a commitment to environmental responsibility, IPAK is poised to lead the packaging industry into a future where sustainability is key.
A major area of focus for IPAK moving forward is its ongoing investment in sustainable materials and packaging solutions that reduce the environmental impact of plastic. The development of bio-based films, increased use of recycled content, and further integration of renewable energy sources are central to the company’s strategy.
IPAK’s efforts to contribute to the circular economy, combined with its innovative product portfolio, place the company in a strong position to meet growing global demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
IPAK’s continued expansion into international markets is another important aspect of its long-term strategy. With the launch of IPAK Connect and its growing presence in regions such as the Middle East, Africa and Europe, the company is well on its way to becoming a global player in the packaging industry. Its commitment to building lasting relationships with customers and partners around the world ensures that IPAK will remain at the forefront of innovation and growth.
Key Focus Areas for Future Growth
1. Expansion of Product Lines: IPAK is actively working to introduce new product lines, including BOPE films and topcoated BOPP and BOPET films, that offer enhanced sustainability features. These new products are designed to meet the evolving needs of global markets, with a focus on reducing plastic usage and promoting recyclability.
2. Renewable Energy Investments: The company is planning to increase its investment in renewable energy, building on its success with solar power at its Lahore facility. This will help IPAK reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, lower its carbon footprint, and work towards its goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
3. Strengthening Global Presence: IPAK’s expansion into international markets is set to continue, with a focus on building strong partnerships and exploring new opportunities. The company aims to further establish itself as a global leader in flexible packaging, serving customers across a wide range of industries.
4. Sustainability and the Circular Economy: IPAK is deeply committed to promoting the circular economy in packaging, with a focus on developing fully recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions. By aligning with global sustainability initiatives, IPAK is working to reduce the environmental impact of plastic packaging and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Leadership, Innovation, and Sustainability
IPAK’s journey from a young company to becoming Pakistan’s largest manufacturer of flexible packaging films has been marked by its relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Through its advanced product portfolio, commitment to reducing environmental impact, and strategic global expansion, IPAK has established itself as a leader in the packaging industry.
The company’s success is underpinned by its dedication to providing high-quality packaging solutions that meet the diverse needs of its clients while contributing to a more sustainable world. With a strong leadership team, a clear vision for the future, and a focus on innovation, IPAK is well-positioned to continue driving positive change in the packaging industry.
As the global demand for sustainable and innovative packaging solutions grows, IPAK’s forward-thinking approach ensures that it will remain at the forefront of the industry.
By staying true to its core values of quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, IPAK is set to lead the way in transforming the future of packaging, offering solutions that not only meet today’s needs but also anticipate the challenges of tomorrow.
Final Thoughts
IPAK’s remarkable growth story is a testament to the power of innovation and strategic leadership. The company’s ability to adapt to changing market demands, prioritise sustainability, and continually innovate has enabled it to rise as a dominant player in the packaging industry.
As IPAK continues to expand its product offerings and strengthen its global presence, it remains committed to delivering high performance packaging solutions that align with its core values of sustainability, quality, and innovation.
Looking ahead, IPAK is well-positioned to shape the future of packaging, setting new standards for excellence and sustainability in an ever-evolving global market.
